EMPOWERING THE NATION. The Manila Electric Company (Meralco) is committed to nation-building through its investments in smart infrastructure to improve its electricity distribution system and ensure safe, stable and reliable electricity service to its over eight million customers. Contributed Photo

Meralco is accelerating its ambitious drive toward a smarter, more sustainable, and more customer-centered energy ecosystem—rolling out advanced technologies, strengthening global partnerships, and cultivating a company-wide culture of innovation.

For years, the Manuel V. Pangilinan-led power distributor has been reshaping its operations to deliver smarter and more personalized services to more than eight million customers. Its long-term direction is clear: build an intelligent grid that supports clean energy, boosts efficiency, and empowers Filipinos to take a more active role in their energy use.

Building the Grid of the Future

The company has already deployed several cutting-edge systems. Among these is the Wireless Private Network, which improves grid automation and enhances system security. The Meralco Data Platform now harnesses big data and artificial intelligence to improve planning and operations. Meanwhile, the Meralco Interactive Data Assistant gives customers faster digital support through an AI-powered interface.

All these tools serve a larger vision—a more flexible, modern grid capable of integrating renewable energy, electric vehicles, and emerging technologies. Under this framework, consumers are no longer just energy users; they are potential contributors to the power system.

At the 2025 Mobile World Congress, Meralco detailed its 7Ds Digital Transformation Strategy, a roadmap composed of seven pillars: Digital Customer, Digital Grid, Digital Employee, Digital Enterprise, Data Platforms and AI, Digital Infrastructure, and Digital Communications. These pillars work together to enhance customer experience, streamline operations, and support AI-driven decision-making across the utility.

Global Collaborations with Local Benefits

Meralco continues to forge strategic partnerships with global technology leaders to advance the country's energy infrastructure. One of the most significant collaborations is with Itron, Inc., whose Advanced Metering Infrastructure will initially manage 73,000 endpoints in Metro Manila before expanding to other Meralco service areas.

This system enables two-way, near real-time communication between customers and Meralco, resulting in quicker outage detection, faster restoration, more accurate billing, and improved visibility of electricity consumption.

Exploring Nuclear for a Low-Carbon Future

Alongside digital transformation, Meralco is studying nuclear energy as a long-term, low-carbon option under its Nuclear Energy Strategic Transition (NEST) program. The initiative examines all pathways for potential nuclear development—from large-scale power plants and small modular reactors to the possible rehabilitation of the Bataan Nuclear Power Plant.

To support these studies, Meralco is working with Korea Electric Power Corporation, DL Engineering & Construction, and French energy giant Électricité de France.

NEXT-GEN SOLUTIONS. IDOL Hackathon gathered 51 students from 8 universities and colleges. In the photo are the IDOL Hackathon 2025 winners, with champion Team Koryinti, composed of five students from the University of the Philippines–Diliman, UP Los Baños, and Mapúa University, recognized for their centralized e-mobility ecosystem concept.

Innovation as Culture

Innovation at Meralco goes beyond tools and technology. It is embedded in company culture.

During its annual Innovation Month, Meralco brings together employees, industry partners, and students to highlight projects that push boundaries in customer experience, grid resilience, enterprise efficiency, and safety. Dozens of entries undergo a rigorous selection process, culminating in the Innovation Awards, where standout solutions receive recognition.

One of the most notable winners was Project NIMBUS, which focused on strengthening the grid and demonstrated how collaborative innovation can yield practical and impactful results.

Youth-Driven Engineering Solutions

The IDOL Hackathon, organized by the Meralco Power Academy, gathers student engineers for a 24-hour prototyping challenge. Participants develop functional solutions that address real-world energy problems—from electric mobility platforms to smart home safety systems and appliance monitoring apps. These projects showcase how the next generation is contributing ideas that may one day influence national energy policies and technologies.

Shaping the Intelligent Grid

Tech Talk, another key Innovation Month event, explored the evolving landscape of distributed energy resources such as solar power, battery storage, and electric vehicles. Experts from global tech and energy companies discussed the systems and strategies needed to build a stable, resilient, and decarbonized intelligent grid.

The discussions highlighted the need for collaboration, modern infrastructure, and a willingness to rethink traditional utility models. As Meralco continues to expand digital capabilities and sustainable investments, it is positioning itself at the forefront of the Philippines’ energy transformation.

Powering Progress for Generations

Meralco’s expanding initiatives—ranging from nuclear studies and digital modernization to student innovation and global partnerships—reflect its commitment to building an energy future that is smarter, greener, and more inclusive.

The company’s direction underscores a simple but powerful message: Meralco is not just distributing electricity. It is laying down the foundations for the country’s long-term power security, sustainability, and technological progress.